Weddings are certainly not for the faint-hearted, especially considering the significant expenses involved. For one couple, the issue of no-shows at their wedding became a matter they couldn’t overlook.
Following their nuptials, this newly married couple expressed their disappointment with guests who had RSVP’d affirmatively but failed to attend the event. In response, they took a rather unconventional step by sending a $240 bill to those who had wrongly confirmed their attendance.
The invoice, shared on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), caught attention with its due date set for August 18, a month after being dispatched. It detailed a cost of $120 per head for the wedding, held at the Royalton Negril Resort & Spa in Jamaica.

While some initially speculated the authenticity of the invoice, the bride and groom, identified as Doug Simmons and Dedra McGee from Chicago, later confirmed its legitimacy. They explained their decision to media outlets, with Doug expressing his dismay at the no-shows, which left him feeling disrespected.
Doug originally posted the invoice on his Facebook account, emphasizing that it was sent to those who had confirmed their attendance during the final headcount. The note section of the invoice elaborated that the amount was owed for seats reserved in advance, and provided options for payment via Zelle or PayPal.

Opinions on the couple’s action were divided. While some sympathized, citing similar experiences of wasted resources at their own weddings, others criticized the move as unfair and even damaging to relationships. Nevertheless, the groom acknowledged the pettiness of the gesture, clarifying that it was more about feeling disregarded after considerable effort and expense in organizing a destination wedding for over 100 guests.
Despite not specifying consequences for non-payment, the couple hinted at strained relationships resulting from the incident. As opinions continue to vary, the question remains: Do the bride and groom have a right to claim payment for no-shows at their wedding? Share your thoughts in the comments below.